The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

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Updated October 10, 2023

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The Hoosier State offers a wide variety of degree programs for online college students.

The future success of the workforce in Indiana largely depends on higher education. Students can choose from more than 60 colleges and universities in the state, including some of the top-ranked schools in the nation, but educational attainment still lags behind the national average.

In response, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education developed an initiative to have 60% of its working-age adults earn higher education credentials by 2025. The state committed to improving access to both on-campus and online colleges in Indiana, enhancing practical program offerings, and increasing support for schools and students.

Indiana students now attend state colleges at higher rates and receive more financial aid than ever before, while also experiencing some of the country's lowest tuition increases. Prospective learners benefit from this renewed support for higher education, but they still need to research the best schools and programs to make informed educational decisions. To help, we put together this ranking of and guide to the best colleges in Indiana.

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The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

#1 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana University-Bloomington

  • Bloomington, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For many online degree-seekers, Indiana University-Bloomington is an attractive choice. Those who choose to enroll at this public college can choose from 30 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners not located near the Bloomington campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.

Potential applicants can contact the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.

Indiana University-Bloomington at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,390

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 9%

Admission Rate: 78%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,501
Out-of-state
$31,932
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Ball State University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level have 113 options through this public institution. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online enrollees can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Muncie campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.

Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.

Ball State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 9,809

Online Bachelor's Programs: 29

Online Master's Programs: 30

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 36%

Admission Rate: 77%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,358
Out-of-state
$26,138
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,850
Out-of-state
$21,954
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
22,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Huntington University

  • Huntington, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Huntington University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level have 13 options through this private institution. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the Huntington campus are available to help online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

Huntington University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 259

Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 75%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,956
Out-of-state
$25,956
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,064
Out-of-state
$11,064
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,384
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

  • Marion, IN
  • 4 years
  • Campus

A quality online college education is available at Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Marion campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 589

Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available

Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Percent of Programs Offered Online: Data not available

Admission Rate: 67%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,296
Out-of-state
$27,296
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,440
Out-of-state
$13,440
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,165
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana State University

  • Terre Haute, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Indiana State University ranks among the best online colleges. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this public school. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Terre Haute campus. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.

Indiana State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,748

Online Bachelor's Programs: 23

Online Master's Programs: 18

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 36%

Admission Rate: 90%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,036
Out-of-state
$19,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,542
Out-of-state
$14,814
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
12,144
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis. Students who wish to study remotely at this public school can choose between 46 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.

Online learners not located near the Indianapolis campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. Students also gain first hand experience in their field through internship programs. The program grants graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 12,161

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 14

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 15%

Admission Rate: 81%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,580
Out-of-state
$29,589
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,826
Out-of-state
$24,144
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
29,537
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

  • Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For many online degree-seekers, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is an attractive choice. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this private school. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Saint Mary of the Woods campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many students also gain hand-on field experience through the school's internship program. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.

Prospective applicants can get more information about online programs and application requirements from the school directly.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 347

Online Bachelor's Programs: 25

Online Master's Programs: 1

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 61%

Admission Rate: 67%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,950
Out-of-state
$29,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,780
Out-of-state
$12,780
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
1,094
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana Institute of Technology

  • Fort Wayne, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Indiana Institute of Technology's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. The private college's six online programs consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.

The academic and career advisors located at the Fort Wayne campus are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. Program graduates receive a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

Indiana Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 796

Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%

Admission Rate: 60%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,990
Out-of-state
$26,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,026
Out-of-state
$10,026
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
2,223
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Trine University

  • Angola, IN
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Online degree-seekers should consider Trine University. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.

Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Angola campus. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Trine University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 875

Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available

Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Percent of Programs Offered Online: Data not available

Admission Rate: 82%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,330
Out-of-state
$32,330
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$39,450
Out-of-state
$39,450
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
3,970
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Indiana University-East

  • Richmond, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Indiana University-East is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The school, a public institution, hosts 19 options for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Richmond campus. Degree-seekers can take advantage of virtual job fairs and other career-planning services. Many programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Completing the program grants graduates an accredited degree.

Prospective applicants can get more information about online programs and application requirements from the school directly.

Indiana University-East at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,989

Online Bachelor's Programs: 13

Online Master's Programs: 1

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 48%

Admission Rate: 63%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,895
Out-of-state
$19,346
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,264
Out-of-state
$17,113
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
3,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

University of Southern Indiana

  • Evansville, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Those looking for an online college program should consider University of Southern Indiana. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level have 17 options through this public institution. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Evansville. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The internship program that the school offers helps many students prepare for their future careers. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

University of Southern Indiana at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,785

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 18%

Admission Rate: 93%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,986
Out-of-state
$19,296
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,486
Out-of-state
$18,528
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
10,705
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

  • Fort Wayne, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. The private institution's seven online programs consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.

Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Fort Wayne. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.

Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.

University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,008

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 9%

Admission Rate: 96%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,380
Out-of-state
$30,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,450
Out-of-state
$9,450
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
2,249
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Grace College and Theological Seminary

  • Winona Lake, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Grace College and Theological Seminary is a leader in online education. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level have 16 options through this private institution. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.

Online learners can also work with academic and career services professionals located at the Winona Lake campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Upon completing the program, the college gives graduates an accredited degree.

Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.

Grace College and Theological Seminary at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 389

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 80%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,078
Out-of-state
$24,078
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,386
Out-of-state
$7,386
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,957
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Oakland City University

  • Oakland City, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oakland City University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The private institution makes 10 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Oakland City campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. Completing the program grants graduates an accredited degree.

Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.

Oakland City University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 143

Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Online Master's Programs: 2

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 29%

Admission Rate: 55%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,300
Out-of-state
$24,300
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$8,100
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
1,435
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 The Best Online Colleges in Indiana

Marian University

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Marian University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. A total of five online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

Online learners not located near the Indianapolis campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates receive an accredited degree.

Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.

Marian University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,087

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 2

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 11%

Admission Rate: 62%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,000
Out-of-state
$35,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,772
Out-of-state
$21,772
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
3,519
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
Best Online Programs

Online Colleges in Indiana Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Employment in Indiana

The employment outlook for Indiana appears quite strong, particularly when compared to the rest of the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the state's 4.2% unemployment rate is January 2021 was 2% lower than the average rate for the nation. The state also attracts new and future workers with its cost of living index, which is nearly 20 points lower than the national average.

Individuals seeking employment in the state's major industries enjoy an even better career outlook. Indiana ranks in the top 10 employment states for agricultural product sales, has one of the fastest-growing technology sectors, and is a national leader in life sciences jobs and exports.

Targeting a growing field with your degree can improve employment chances significantly. Students should consider how their strengths and interests align with state trends and choose a discipline that satisfies both.

The following section highlights the highest-paying and most common jobs in Indiana, including a few of the highest-paying roles employing more than 1,000 individuals in the state. Salary information refers specifically to Indiana, while job growth data pertains to the entire United States.

Highest-Paying Careers
Career Annual Mean Salary (2019) Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) Education Required
Dentists $178,750 3% Doctoral degree
Chief Executives $161,410 4% Bachelor's degree
Sales Managers $127,140 4% Bachelor's degree
Architectural and Engineering Managers $126,150 3% Bachelor's degree
Computer and Information Systems Managers $126,030 10% Bachelor's degree
Source: BLS

The following data reflects the highest-paying roles that employ more than 7,500 professionals in Indiana. Salary figures apply specifically to Indiana, while job growth data refers to the United States as a whole.

Highest-Paying Careers
Career Annual Mean Salary (2019) Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) Education Required
Physicians $244,980 4% Doctoral degree
Financial Managers $118,370 15% Bachelor's degree
Lawyers $111,790 4% Doctoral degree
General and Operations Managers $110,480 6% Bachelor's degree
Medical and Health Services Managers $102,300 32% Bachelor's degree
Source: BLS

Online Associate and Graduate Degrees

Online degrees provide schedule flexibility and accessibility for many students. Online training allows learners to combine work and study in ways that on-campus programs may not. As the COVID-19 situation halted the vast majority of campus programs across the country, online learning allowed schools and students to continue with their studies from a safe distance.

Online training has expanded substantially amid the pandemic, with schools increasing their program quantity, quality, and support resources. In Indiana, this trend holds true: The Indiana University systems increased entirely online programs 46% in 2020.

Indiana students have access to hundreds of online programs across education levels, including more than 170 degrees at Indiana University alone. Learners can complete individual online courses or earn an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree entirely online. Some available online disciplines include health sciences, business, and computer science. These degrees provide the same training and credentials as their on-campus counterparts.

Online programs feature asynchronous or synchronous classes, allowing students to complete coursework on their own time or through a set schedule. Online programs may also offer more accessible support resources, innovative assignments, and unique collaborative efforts through modern technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Online College Cheaper in Indiana?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition rates in Indiana are slightly higher than the national average. Online colleges in Indiana may offer reduced rates, but prices vary by school.

What Is the Hardest College To Get Into in Indiana?

Admission requirements for online colleges in Indiana vary by the program, but Purdue University, Notre Dame University, and Indiana University Bloomington all offer competitive programs and high academic standards.

What Ivy League School Is in Indiana?

The state does not host an ivy league school, but many consider Indiana University Bloomington to be a public ivy league institution and rank it among the best colleges in Indiana.

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